Summer Missions Festival

I get to spend this weekend at Wooddale Church in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. It is one of my largest partnering churches yet manages to have that small town feel - especially with the ministry teams who are responsible for missionary care. Carol - the missionary care giver extrodinaire - is a spark plug of energy and gushing with sisterly love for all the global partners. This morning we kicked off the Summer Missions Festival with the Welcome Breakfast for Global Partners. Then individuals and families have debriefing sessions with the ministry teams sharing highlights and prayer requests. There are 5 services at this campus and 2 at the Edina campus. And there are many events - coffee houses, reports, booths, and times of worship scheduled.

So what's my role this weekend?

I will be presenting my faith story at the Eden Prairie Campus in all 5 services : Saturday 5:15pm and Sunday 9am, 10:15am, 11:30am and 7pm. Sounds like a lot of talking but its simply a 5 minute story about how God has led me to ministry in Japan and a story of what He's at work doing there. I'm excited to connect with the church community in this way and since it's already written and practiced, the "only" task remaining is getting my nerves under control as I speak infront of the masses. I hope my story challenges people seek God and encourages them to get involved in ministry and perhaps ministry in Japan were workers are needed.

Life is Good

I've been in the states for 3 weeks now and have yet to update the blog. Sorry to be a blog slacker - I've not had the most reliable internet access lately.

I would like you to know I'm doing well. Adjustment to the states is going smoothly. A college roommate of mine has lent me her car for the summer - Such a blessing! And I was able to renew my driver's license (written test) on the first try!

I've enjoyed some lovely family time. (see photo).

I've completed all but one of the required Doctor/Dentist visits. And spent some time reconnecting with friends and seeing new additions to their families. Today I'll be heading to Rochester to celebrate my Grandma's 88th birthday! Below is a photo of 3 generations, my mom, my grandma and me.

I've started my church visits. This weekend (July 18) I'll be in Ortonville, MN, speaking at New Life Community Baptist Church. I'll be speaking at the 9:15am Sunday School hour if you're in the area and are able to join us I'd love to meet you!

The plane has landed

Just wanted to update that I've arrived safely in the states and am enjoying the time with family in this cool weather. (70's and 80's with almost no humidity). Let the Home Assignment begin!
I've taken a few photos which I'll try to post when I can download them - but for now just want to say thank you for your prayers for a safe arrival - I landed in Minnesota during a thunder storm and viewed quite a lightning display from the air. I also caught the 2nd half and over time of the USA vs. Ghana world Cup match. Sorry to see USA out but am now saying GO Ghana! Represent Africa!!